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A US$7.8 billion high-speed rail service linking London's Heathrow and Gatwick airports in 15 minutes is being considered by ministers in an attempt to maximise air capacity.
The trains, travelling at 180 miles per hour and leaving every five minutes, would hug the route of the M25 motorway and travel underground most of the way, according to early proposals, The Times reported.
This "Heathwick" option would create the world's first "virtual hub" between two airports and provide a quicker and cheaper answer to Britain's capacity problems than a new airport in the Thames Estuary, according to supporters.
Amid warnings from business that Britain risks losing trade deals with China, Brazil and other emerging markets to countries that can offer seamless air links, ministers are anxious to find a solution that doesn't entail expansion at Heathrow.
Supporters argue that "Heathwick" would allow London's airports to compete more effectively with large European airports by encouraging more transfers. Low-cost carriers such as EasyJet, would be encouraged to leave Gatwick for Stansted. It would also help the economy to recoup some of the $1.87 billion a year Britain currently loses to the Netherlands, Germany and France.
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